Holding a Grudge Produces Cortisol and Diminishes Oxytocin

We all know the physiological feeling created when your “blood is boiling” and you ruminate about ways to “get even” with someone who has hurt or betrayed you. Feelings ofanger or revenge activate the “fight-or-flight” stress response of your sympathetic nervous system which causes cortisol levels to spike. The stress response triggered by bitterness and rage also raises blood pressure, reduces the healthy tone of your …